24 ARTHR was later renamed RIK. The application was improved, and it allowed the robots to become independent when navigating terrain by being able to interpret and “understand” its surroundings. This was particularly beneficial for threat detection in tunnels, where cable tethers can’t be used and remote-control communications can be lost. 5D Robotics is a privately funded robotics software company that spun out of INL in 2009. Although 5D’s technologies were initially developed for military use, the company’s products are also gaining acceptance in commercial applications in improving the energy efficiency of autonomous platforms. Conflicts of Interest Conflicts of interest can happen when INL employees, through relationships with outside organizations, are in a position to adversely influence inventions for financial gain or improper advantages. In particular, inventors need to be aware when licenses are being considered for any company in which an INL employee has an equity, management or family interest. Certain government contracts and grants have additional conflict-of-in- terest reporting requirements. Potential conflict of commitments may exist if duties, assign- ments or responsibilities associated with licensing technologies negatively impact the inventor’s ability to meet INL employment commitments or exceed the inventor’s amount of available time. It is the responsibility of INL employees to disclose and docu- ment any outside arrangements that constitute potential conflicts of interest. Although TD should be notified of potential conflicts of interest, for questions or more information, contact INL’s Conflict of Interest coordinator in the Legal Department. Michael G. McKellar 2016 Highlights of commercial developments: Michael’s suite of natural gas liquefaction patents has produced more than $1.5 million in licensing income for INL and more than $20 million in private investment by INL licensees. His work has attracted interest from companies ranging from startups to Fortune 50 enterprises. He has provided valu- able support in patent prosecution and licensee engagement which was instrumental in sustained efforts to commercialize INL’s liquefaction technology. Michael has 17 issued U.S. patents (12 of which are commercially licensed), nearly 50 foreign patents and patent applications and 13 journal and book publications. His contributions to the development of a commercially relevant patent portfolio, and his desire to work with industry, have resulted in 21 technology license and license option agreements. Michael’s inventions regarding an innovative liquefaction plant are ideally suited to accelerate the adoption of liquid natural gas as a transportation, marine, and rail fuel, and have the potential to support a reduction in flaring and diesel fuel consumption in upstream oil and gas operations. In addition to his innovations that are being commercialized, Michael has participated in 11 indus- try-sponsored collaborative research projects and multiple university partnerships. His achievements include an R&D 100 Award and two Federal Laboratory Consortium Far West Region awards.